Elmhurst University women's basketball opened its season in impressive fashion on Friday afternoon, powering past Rose-Hulman 72–51 in the opening game of the 24th Annual McWilliams Classic in St. Louis. The win marks a strong start to the 2025–26 season for a Bluejay group coming off a successful 2024–25 campaign that included a berth in the CCIW Conference Tournament and one of the program's strongest regular seasons in recent years.
The Bluejays wasted no time establishing control, erupting for 26 first-quarter points while holding Rose-Hulman to just five. Elmhurst's defensive pressure produced eight first-quarter turnovers, and the offense found its rhythm early behind balanced scoring and sharp ball movement. By halftime, Elmhurst had surged to a commanding 45–21 lead thanks to efficient shooting, transition play, and a relentless effort on the glass.
Kristin Bukata led the way with a standout performance, finishing with 21 points on 9-of-14 shooting to go along with seven assists, four steals, and six rebounds in 35 minutes. Her all-around presence fueled Elmhurst at both ends of the floor. Anna Kleszynski matched Bukata with 21 points of her own on 9-of-15 shooting and added seven rebounds, a steal, and a block while consistently attacking the paint and converting key opportunities.
Maia Lewers provided a steady two-way presence, scoring nine points with six rebounds, two steals, and an assist. Her pair of first-half three-pointers helped extend Elmhurst's early advantage. Natalie Harty added 13 points and knocked down three shots from beyond the arc, while Natalie Robinson anchored the Bluejays on the boards with nine rebounds—five coming on the offensive end—along with four points.
Elmhurst's ability to control the boards (40–32 advantage), create second-chance opportunities (17 offensive rebounds), and generate points off turnovers (19) proved decisive. The Bluejays also dictated the interior battle, outscoring Rose-Hulman in the paint while holding the Fightin' Engineers without a three-point basket.
Defensively, Elmhurst forced 20 turnovers and recorded 11 steals, turning stops into transition points and consistently widening the margin. Even as Rose-Hulman found more rhythm after halftime, the Bluejays maintained control and closed out the game with poise.
With the team's core returning from last year's postseason run, Friday's performance showcased the grit and determination that defined Elmhurst's success a season ago.
The Bluejays continue play at the McWilliams Classic tomorrow as they look to build on their strong season-opening momentum. They await the winner of the second game of the tournament.
